Closer look:

Now, I’d like to focus on just a few things in that list. Firstly, and most importantly, the Display Emulation Technology.  I just can not get across how important this is, you wouldn’t understand unless you have a KVM (and possibly had all the exact same experiences, hardware, software, annoyances and opinions as myself.. *cough*).

Audio + USB

Aww, no Commodore 64

Lots of ways to plug in

With the older  CS1762, if I booted my PC while the KVM was focused on another computer, Windows would default down to 1024x768. And in XP/2003 Server, it wouldn’t let you out of that resolution without 3^rd party programs, or rebooting. Vista/2008 Server would still default to that, but at least you could reset the display normally.

Ewww PS/2

Don't even have a PS/2 mouse!

Printer on a KVM?

With the Emulation, the KVM will always tell your computer that your monitor is still attached, so even OSX doesn’t decide to muck with your desktop thinking something is wrong. (and in the process, move every icon around so you lose track of everything)

Packed in tight

Cables++

Quick guide

The other new feature, the Dual Link DVI support. Without this support, any monitor you use, is limited to 1600x1200 (or 1650X1050 for wide screen). If you aren’t a gamer, or don’t have a monitor, this isn’t a problem. But for monitors like the Dell 3007/3008 or Apple’s 30” cinema display, that just doesn’t cut it.

Manual

Out of the box

DVI + USB + Stereo

I wish I had a Dell 30” to test out the Dual Link, but I don’t see that happening in the immediate future. So I am just going to have to take Aten’s word for it.

Extra cable for 7.1

PS/2 -> USB

Really short!!!

 Now. 7.1 Surround sound. I really wasn’t expecting to see a KVM with 7.1 anytime soon. It took such a long time to migrate to USB/DVI connections. Looking quickly, I could only find a few other companies with 7.1 KVM’s, but I think it’s safe to say they will probably have more company in the near future.

Back view

8 ports per comp

To the devices

 Apple limits its surround sound to the Optical ports, so I wasn’t able to hook it up. The audio switching works fine with everything that connects to it, and doesn’t seem to add any extra delay switching focus.

Bottom pads

Front buttons + lights

USB + headphones

Installation:

With the CS1762, I had a lot of problems finding an actual keyboard that worked with the KVM shortcut keys. Most USB keyboards don’t have scroll lock keys, and Apple’s white keyboard couldn’t change the shortcut key to the control key. Bluetooth keyboards were no better, as the Logitech wireless didn’t worth either.

CS1782 bottom 62 top

Size difference

Basics hooked up

The CS1782 had no issues getting the Mac keyboards to work. I was able to switch the shortcut to control key first try. Well, that is after I read the manual to find out what the key combination was again... There are a few dozen different key commands. With the extra 7.1 audio and USB ports, there are 3 things that you can switch between the 2 ports. Unfortunately, the audio does not get it's own LED to indicate what port currently has focus. I think that might have been a feature added after the hardware was designed.

Rats nest.

New and old

Ready to swap

Conclusion:

This is just what I want in a KVM. It’s pretty simple, all my hardware works, it fixes the limitations of the previous models, and adds new features that aren’t just window dressing. Once again, it's monitor emulation that really sets it apart.

Tucked away

All setup

I'm happy with the mess

My only beef with the CS1782, is the power cord. The AC adaptor supplied has a stupidly short cord on it. Under 3 feet! This made it really hard to setup with all my stuff already where I wanted it. It is especially infuriating because I was still using the Aten CS1762, and it’s cord is much longer. The plugs are completely different too, so I couldn’t just use the old one.

It’s one *very* easily fixed oversight in an otherwise great product. I commend Aten on all their efforts to improve their product lines. I will be recommending this KVM to anyone with two systems.

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